Best Online Master's Degree in Educational Counseling for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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School counselors play a vital role in guiding students through academic, career, and personal challenges, making a Master’s in Educational Counseling a valuable step for those seeking to make a meaningful impact. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 5% job growth until 2032, adding thousands of positions and underscoring the growing demand for qualified counselors.

With this guide, readers can expect to gain insights into the key features of these programs, including their flexible formats, comprehensive curricula, and preparation for licensure and career advancement. We also highlight the importance of choosing a program with appropriate accreditation, such as CACREP, which ensures a high standard of education and often facilitates the licensure process.

What are the benefits of getting a degree in educational counseling?

What can I expect from an educational counseling degree?

An educational counseling degree prepares you for a career dedicated to supporting students and clients through their academic and personal development. You can expect a curriculum covering subjects such as human development, counseling theories and techniques, ethical and legal issues, assessment methods, and multicultural counseling.

Practical components often include supervised internships or practicum experiences, giving you hands-on opportunities to work in educational or community settings.

Where can I work with an educational counseling degree?

With an educational counseling degree, you can work in a variety of settings. Most commonly, graduates find positions in public and private K-12 schools as elementary, middle, or high school counselors, where they support students’ academic, career, and social-emotional development.

Opportunities also exist at colleges and universities as academic advisors, admissions counselors, or career services counselors, guiding students through course selection, college transition, and job searches.

How much can I make with an educational counseling degree?

With an educational counseling degree in the United States, you can expect to earn a median annual salary of around $61,710 to $65,140 in 2025. The typical salary range varies depending on experience, location, and work environment: entry-level roles might start near $43,580, while experienced professionals in the top 10% can earn over $105,870 annually.

Salaries differ significantly by state; for example, the median in California is around $94,320, in Massachusetts $78,840, and in Texas $65,660.

Best Online Master's Degrees in Educational Counseling for 2025

1. Fresno Pacific University Master of Arts in School Counseling

The Master of Arts in School Counseling at Fresno Pacific University requires 50 units of coursework and 800 hours of supervised field experience in K–12 settings. Core courses include Foundations of the School Counseling Profession, Social Emotional Development, Professionalism, Ethics & Legal Mandates, and Program Development & Core Curriculum. Graduates are eligible to apply for California’s PPS credential and enter the field as fully credentialed school counselors.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Tracks/concentrations: School Counseling
• Cost per credit: $770
• Required credits to graduate: 50 credits

• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission

2. University of Denver Master of Arts in School Counseling

The University of Denver’s Master of Arts in School Counseling, offered through the Morgridge College of Education, is a distinguished online program designed to prepare future school counselors as agents of change in P–12 educational settings. The curriculum is designed to shape socially conscious school counselors capable of addressing the academic, career, and social/emotional needs of students from diverse backgrounds. Emphasis is placed on advocacy, data-driven decision-making, and closing opportunity gaps.

• Program Length: 22 months
• Tracks/concentrations: School Counseling
• Cost per credit: $770
• Required credits to graduate: 60 credits

• Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

3. Bradley University Master of Arts in Professional School Counseling

The Bradley University Master of Arts in Professional School Counseling includes two brief, intensive, one-week campus residencies that focus on skills development and cohort bonding—offering a unique balance between online flexibility and hands-on practice. Courses emphasize culturally responsive counseling and leadership within educational systems, preparing graduates to address a range of student needs.

• Program Length: 3 years
• Tracks/concentrations: School Counseling
• Cost per credit: $1,153
• Required credits to graduate: 60 credits

• Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

4. Liberty University Master of Education (M.Ed.) in School Counseling

Liberty University’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) in School Counseling is a CACREP and CAEP-accredited online program designed to prepare caring and competent school counselors for K-12 settings, including public, private, and Christian schools. The program includes a full-semester practicum and two full-semester internships, providing a total of substantial hands-on experience within students' local communities.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Tracks/concentrations: School Counseling
• Cost per credit: $580
• Required credits to graduate: 60 credits

• Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

5. North Carolina State University Master of Education (M.Ed.) in School Counseling

The North Carolina State University (NC State) Master of Education (M.Ed.) in School Counseling focuses on multicultural counseling, social justice, and advocacy, preparing counselors to serve diverse student populations effectively. The program integrates research and evidence-based counseling practices with practical application, supporting data-driven decision making and comprehensive school counseling programs.

• Program Length: 3 years
• Tracks/concentrations: School Counseling
• Cost per credit: $547
• Required credits to graduate: 60 credits

• Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

6. Campbellsville University Master of Arts in Education in School Counseling

The Campbellsville University Master of Arts in Education in School Counseling covers counseling theories, group counseling, substance abuse, college readiness, crisis intervention, cultural competency, modern trends in school counseling, and ethical and legal issues. Professional and retired school counselors and administrators develop and teach courses, offering valuable mentorship and current industry insight.

• Program Length: 18 months
• Tracks/concentrations: School Counseling
• Cost per credit: $319
• Required credits to graduate: 48 credits

• Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

7. Seton Hall University Master of Arts in School Counseling

Seton Hall University’s Master of Arts in School Counseling is a nationally recognized, CAEP-accredited program rooted in values of equity and inclusion, equipping graduates to address complex and contemporary challenges facing students from diverse backgrounds. The curriculum prioritizes multicultural competence, social justice, and student-centered practice, preparing counselors to be leaders and advocates for all students.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Tracks/concentrations: School Counseling
• Cost per credit: $1,150
• Required credits to graduate: 48 credits

• Accreditation: Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation

8. Northwestern University Master of Arts in Counseling

The Northwestern University Master of Arts in Counseling features core courses such as Theories of Counseling & Psychotherapy, Psychopathology & DSM-5 Diagnosis, Multicultural Counseling, Assessment & Career Counseling, and Addictions Counseling, alongside Practicum and Internship experiences totaling 800 hours. Elective options such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy are also available.

• Program Length: 18 months
• Tracks/concentrations: School Counseling
• Cost per credit: $5,743
• Required credits to graduate: 24 credits

• Accreditation: Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs

9. Eastern New Mexico University Master of Education with Emphasis in School Counseling

Eastern New Mexico University’s Master of Education with Emphasis in School Counseling stands out as a flexible program designed for working professionals aiming to become licensed K–12 school counselors. The curriculum includes foundational topics such as Foundations of School Counseling; Human Growth & Development; Career Development & Counseling; Mental Health & Community Counseling and related practicum and internship courses.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Tracks/concentrations: School Counseling
• Cost per credit: $317 
• Required credits to graduate: 48 credits

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

10. Grand Canyon University Master of Education (M.Ed.) in School Counseling

Grand Canyon University’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) in School Counseling is aims to equip future school counselors with the skills to support and empower students from pre-K through 12th grade. It offers core courses in Theories and Models of Counseling, Ethical and Legal Considerations, School Counseling Program Administration, and College & Career Counseling, along with training in mental health, trauma‑informed practice, and research methods.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Tracks/concentrations: School Counseling
• Cost per credit: $615
• Required credits to graduate: 60 credits

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

How long does it take to complete an online master’s degree in education counseling?

The time required to complete an online master’s degree in education counseling typically ranges from about 18 months to 3 years, depending on the program structure and the student’s pace. Many programs, such as Campbellsville University’s, can be completed in as little as 18 months through fully online coursework and internships.

Other fastest online master's degree in educational counseling offer flexible pacing options, allowing part-time study over approximately 2 to 3 years to accommodate working professionals. 

Most programs require between 42 and 60 credit hours, including practicum and internship experiences totaling several hundred hours of supervised fieldwork. The variation in length allows students to choose accelerated, full-time, or part-time tracks based on their individual needs and schedules.

Overall, the flexible designs of these online programs help students balance earning their degree with personal and professional commitments.

How does an online master’s degree in education counseling compare to an on-campus program?

An online master’s degree in education counseling offers greater flexibility and accessibility compared to an on-campus program. Students can study from anywhere, often at their own pace, which makes balancing work, family, and other commitments easier.

Online programs frequently use interactive technology—such as live video classes, discussion forums, and virtual simulations—to foster engagement and skill development. They also provide opportunities for local practicum and internship placements, though arranging hands-on experience may require more individual effort.

In contrast, on-campus programs emphasize face-to-face interaction, immediate feedback, and community-building among students and faculty. This traditional setting supports real-time practice, role-playing, and group exercises that are valuable for counseling training.

Access to campus resources such as counseling centers and peer support groups can enhance the educational experience. However, on-campus programs typically have less scheduling flexibility and may require commuting or relocation, which is why some opt for the shortest EdS in special education online to gain similar benefits in a shorter time frame.

What is the average cost of an online master’s degree in education counseling?

The average cost of an online master’s degree in education counseling typically ranges from about $20,000 to $30,000 for the entire program, depending on the number of credits required and the tuition per credit. Many affordable online master's programs charge between $300 and $500 per credit, with typical programs requiring around 60 credits. For example:

• Some of the most affordable accredited online counseling programs estimate tuition costs around $25,000 to $30,000 total based on per-credit rates between $429 and $492.80.
• The median tuition among top affordable online master’s in school counseling programs is about $9,000 to $11,000 annual tuition, depending on program length, sometimes totaling close to $20,000 to $25,000 overall for the degree.
• Private institutions and highly ranked programs may charge significantly more, often exceeding $1,000 per credit, leading to total costs above $60,000 to $100,000 in some cases.

Therefore, a reasonable average estimate across a broad range of programs is around $20,000 to $30,000 for the full online master’s in education counseling degree. However, costs can vary widely depending on the school’s public/private status, accreditation, residency, and additional fees—similar to tuition ranges found in the shortest online environmental geography degrees available today.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online master’s degree in education counseling?

Enrolling in an online Master's Degree in Educational Counseling is a significant investment in your career. Fortunately, there are various financial aid options available to help make it more affordable. These options generally fall into several categories:

• Direct Unsubsidized Loans: These loans are not need-based, and interest begins to accrue immediately, even while you're in school. Graduate students can typically borrow up to $20,500 per academic year.
• Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program: This program provides part-time jobs for students with financial need, allowing you to earn money to help cover educational expenses. Eligibility is determined through the FAFSA.
• University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities offer their own scholarships for graduate students, often based on academic merit, demonstrated need, or specific program enrollment (like educational counseling). Some may even offer automatic consideration upon admission.
• Private Organizations and Foundations: Numerous foundations, charities, and private donors offer scholarships for graduate students across various fields, including human services and counseling. Online scholarship search engines can be very helpful for finding these.
• Grants: Similar to scholarships, grants are funds that do not need to be repaid, and they are typically awarded based on financial need. While Federal Pell Grants are primarily for undergraduate students, some state and institutional grants may be available for graduate students.
• Employer Benefits and Tuition Assistance: If you are currently employed, especially in an educational or related field, your employer might offer tuition reimbursement or assistance programs. Many school districts, for example, encourage their staff to pursue advanced degrees and may provide financial support. It's always a good idea to inquire about such benefits with your HR department.

Some students strategically combine these financial resources with enrollment in the shortest online addiction psychology programs to minimize both time and cost while achieving their educational goals.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online master’s degree in education counseling?

The prerequisites for enrolling in an online Master's Degree in Educational Counseling, including other programs such as school social worker requirements by state, are quite consistent across most reputable programs, aiming to ensure that admitted students have the foundational academic ability and personal qualities to succeed in a demanding counseling curriculum.

While specific requirements can vary slightly by institution, here's a comprehensive overview of common prerequisites:

• Accredited Institution: You will almost universally need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. This ensures the quality and recognition of your undergraduate education.
• Official Transcripts: You will need to submit official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions you have attended, including community colleges, even if no degree was awarded. These usually need to be sent directly from the institutions to the admissions office.
• Letters of Recommendation: Typically, two or three letters of recommendation are required. These should come from individuals who can speak to your academic abilities, professional competencies, work ethic, leadership potential, and suitability for a counseling career. Ideal recommenders include former professors, supervisors, or employers. Personal references from friends or family are usually not accepted.
• Relevant Experience: While not always a strict prerequisite, having volunteer or paid experience working with children, adolescents, or in an educational setting (e.g., teaching assistant, mentor, youth counselor, school volunteer) can significantly strengthen your application. It demonstrates your understanding of the population you'll serve and your commitment to the field.

What courses are typically in an online master’s degree in education counseling?

An online Master's Degree in Educational Counseling, even accelerated online school counseling master's programs, are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become effective counselors in K-12 school settings. The curriculum is typically comprehensive, covering both theoretical foundations and practical applications.

• Counseling Children and Adolescents: Specific theories and techniques for working with developmental issues common to children and adolescents, including behavioral interventions, play therapy basics, and family involvement.
• Foundations of School Counseling: Overview of the history, philosophy, and current trends in school counseling, including the ASCA (American School Counselor Association) National Model. Roles and responsibilities of school counselors at different grade levels.
• Developmental Guidance and Counseling: Strategies for delivering comprehensive school counseling programs that address the academic, career, and social-emotional development of students from elementary to high school.
• Practicum: Typically, the first supervised clinical experience, involving a minimum of 100 supervised clock hours (CACREP standard), providing initial exposure to counseling skills in a school or related setting. This usually includes direct service to clients (e.g., individual or group counseling) and often some indirect service (e.g., observation, paperwork).
• Internship: A more extensive supervised experience, requiring a minimum of 600 supervised clock hours (CACREP standard), often split between different grade levels (e.g., elementary and secondary). This is a comprehensive application of all learned skills under the direct supervision of a licensed school counselor and university faculty.

What types of specializations are available in an online master’s degree in education counseling?

The top online programs for graduate certificate in counseling offer a wide array of specializations that allow students to tailor their studies to specific populations, settings, or methods aligned with their career goals. These specializations help students develop targeted expertise and meet the requirements for diverse licensure paths, employer preferences, and the unique needs of the clients and communities they will serve. 

• General School Counseling: This is the standard track, preparing you to be a comprehensive school counselor serving students from kindergarten through high school. The curriculum covers academic advising, career planning, social-emotional development, crisis intervention, group counseling, and consultation with parents and teachers.
• Elementary School Counseling Track: This specialization focuses on the unique developmental needs of younger children. Courses might emphasize play therapy techniques, early intervention strategies, fostering social skills, and collaborating with elementary school teachers and parents.
• College and Career Readiness/Advising: While career development is a core component of all school counseling programs, some specializations might offer a deeper dive into advanced career assessment tools, college admissions processes, financial aid guidance, and preparing students for various post-secondary pathways (e.g., vocational schools, military). This is particularly relevant for secondary school counselors.

How to choose the best online master’s degree in education counseling?

Choosing the "best" online Master's Degree in Educational Counseling is a highly personal decision, as what's ideal for one student may not be for another. However, there are several key factors that everyone should consider to make an informed choice and ensure the program aligns with their career goals and personal circumstances.  

• Accreditation: Many states require or strongly prefer that applicants for school counselor licensure graduate from a CACREP-accredited program. This often streamlines the licensure process and makes it easier to transfer your license to another state later.
• State Licensure Requirements: Licensure requirements for school counselors vary significantly by state. Before applying, research the specific educational, practicum, and internship hour requirements for the state where you plan to practice.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Review the course catalog to ensure it covers all core areas of counseling (e.g., theories, ethics, assessment, multiculturalism, group work, career development) and specific school counseling topics (e.g., developmental guidance, crisis intervention, consultation).
• Tuition and Fees: Compare the total cost of tuition and fees across programs. Be aware of any additional technology fees or course material costs.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online master’s degree in education counseling

An online Master's Degree in Educational Counseling primarily prepares graduates for roles within K-12 school settings, where they are known as School Counselors or Guidance Counselors. This is by far the most common and direct career path.

However, the skills and knowledge gained in these programs, including what are the benefits of being a medical assistant, are highly transferable. This will open doors to various other educational and human services roles, particularly if the program is CACREP-accredited and provides a broad counseling foundation.

• School Counselor (K-12): Advise and support students in academic, social-emotional, and career development in public or private schools.
• Clinical Mental Health Counselor: Provide individual, group, or family counseling in community agencies, private clinics, healthcare settings, or non-profit organizations (requires appropriate licensure).
• College/University Counselor or Advisor: Assist college students with personal, academic, and career planning within higher education institutions.
• Career Counselor: Guide youth or adults through career exploration, job-search strategies, and professional development.
• Rehabilitation Counselor: Support individuals with disabilities in achieving personal and professional goals.
• Substance Abuse/Addiction Counselor: Specializes in prevention, intervention, and recovery services for clients with substance use disorders.
• Student Affairs Professional: Work in student services, leadership, or development roles within educational or community settings.

What is the job market for graduates with an online master’s degree in education counseling?

The job market for graduates with an online master’s degree in education counseling is strong and growing steadily. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for school and career counselors is projected to grow around 4% from 2023 to 2033, roughly as fast as the average for all occupations.

This growth is fueled by increasing recognition of the need for mental health support and academic guidance in schools and communities. Graduates can expect a variety of job opportunities in K-12 schools, higher education institutions, mental health agencies, nonprofit organizations, and private practice. 

Median salaries for related roles are competitive—school counselors earned an average of about $65,000 annually in 2024, while clinical mental health counselors earn around $59,000. Additional roles, such as the highest paying medical assistant jobs also see steady demand with job growth rates ranging from 16% to 19%.

Factors such as geographic location, licensure status, specialization, and work setting influence employment prospects and earnings.

What is the return on investment for an online master’s degree in educational counseling?

Evaluating return on investment requires analyzing not only tuition costs but also long-term career earnings and professional development opportunities. Graduates benefit from competitive salaries and increased career mobility, which can offset program expenses over time. Factors such as accreditation, practical training hours, and networking support influence job placement success and long-term salary growth. Comparing program value is essential, as alternatives for further education may offer lower overall investment—consider exploring options like a cheap psychology degree online for a broader perspective on affordable pathways.

Here's what graduates have to say about their online master’s degree in educational counseling

Other Things Know About the Best Online Master's Degree in Educational Counseling Programs

What type of counseling is most in demand?

The most in-demand type of counseling in 2025 is mental health counseling, with a particular emphasis on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and digital/telehealth counseling. The ongoing need for mental health support has made general mental health counselors, trauma recovery specialists, and addiction counselors especially sought after.

CBT is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating conditions like anxiety and depression, making it a primary modality recommended by professionals and frequently requested by clients.

Is there a shortage of counselors in the US?

Yes, there is a significant shortage of counselors in the United States as of 2025. Millions of Americans lack access to mental health services due to a rising gap between the demand for counseling and the supply of qualified professionals. The Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) estimates that over 160 million people live in federally designated mental health professional shortage areas, with rural and underserved communities the most affected.

Can I enroll in an educational counseling master’s program without a teaching degree?

Yes, you can often enroll in an educational counseling master’s program without having a teaching degree. While many programs prefer or require applicants to have a background in education, psychology, or a closely related field, several accredited online master's programs accept students from diverse academic backgrounds.

In cases where applicants lack prior teaching or counseling experience, programs may ask for evidence of relevant volunteer or work experience with children or adolescents.

Are there accelerated online educational counseling degrees?

Yes, there are accelerated online master's degree programs in educational counseling that allow students to complete their degree faster than the traditional timeline. These accelerated programs typically range from about 12 to 24 months, offering a more intensive and focused curriculum with flexible online delivery.

They are designed for motivated individuals—such as career changers or recent graduates—who want to enter the counseling profession quickly without sacrificing academic rigor or accreditation standards.